Fostering Inquiry and Creativity in Mathematics Using Math Fair as a Pedagogical Tool
Suryakanta Behera
*
HMKS & MGSM College of Education, Kanagala, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Nagarjuna Nagar, A.P., India.
Pratyush Pattnayak
Department of Education, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Mathematics often has a less-than-stellar reputation in the field of teaching. Traditional methods like lectures turn math into a chore, stifling creativity and conflicting with the modern approach of constructivist pedagogy. A math fair shifts learning responsibility to students, making teachers to guide in constructive learning, thereby having the students construct their own mathematical knowledge. This study attempts to explain the various facets of a math fair as well as examine its positive effects on the students. The study concludes that the conduction of a mathematics fair yields positive learning outcomes and increases the interest of students in the subject, along with teaching them other important skills.
Keywords: Mathematics, pedagogy, fair, encourage, skills, motivation